A FORMER family centre could become six flats if the change of use is agreed.

The application, put forward by Craig Thomas at Dale Hey, 16 Gawsworth Road, Great Sutton, was due to be considered by Cheshire West and Chester Council's planning committee yesterday.

It had been called in by St Paul's ward councillor Angela Claydon (Lab) due to concerns about overlooking.

The change of use would include a loft conversion at the two-storey building and parking.

Four of the apartments would be two-bedroom and two would be one-bedroom over three floors.

The loft conversion would involve a large flat roof dormer at the rear and two small dormers at the front.

Two metre high close boarded fencing and hedging around the site would be retained.

Neighbours who have been consulted have raised two objections including loss of privacy and loss of light.

They also believe the dormer windows would be out of keeping with the area.

The principle of the conversion to residential is acceptable, according to planning officers.

Revised plans involving changes to the dormers retain the appearance of the building and do not have a detrimental effect on its character or that of the area.

The large dormer at the rear is said to be acceptable as there are similar dormers nearby.

The apartments would not lead to any loss of light, privacy or overshadowing which would be detrimental to neighbouring occupiers.

The application is recommended for approval subject to four conditions.